Ways to remove stretch marks

Stretch marks, or striae distensae, form when the deeper skin is stretched and supporting fibres change. They may appear during pregnancy, growth, muscle gain or weight change. New marks can be red, pink, purple or darker than the surrounding skin; older marks often become lighter and slightly indented. They are a form of skin scarring, not dirt that can be scrubbed away.

A clinician chooses treatment according to the mark’s age, colour, texture and location. Microneedling creates controlled tiny channels that can stimulate a repair response. Fractional laser treatment targets portions of the skin to encourage remodelling, while RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy to the needle technique. Carboxytherapy is another option used in selected cases. Treatment may require multiple visits and careful aftercare, particularly sun protection and monitoring for pigment changes.

Arrange an assessment if marks appear suddenly without a clear stretching event, spread rapidly, or occur with easy bruising, muscle weakness or prolonged use of steroid medicines. A clinician can check whether the lines are ordinary stretch marks or another skin change.

Ask which layer and feature the treatment targets, whether your skin tone changes the pigment risk, how recovery will affect work or exercise, and which products should be avoided during healing.